Poultry Judging Practice Test

Which vitamin deficiency can lead to rickets in poultry?

1. Vitamin C

2. Vitamin A

3. Vitamin D

4. Vitamin K

The correct answer is: Vitamin D

Rickets in poultry is primarily associated with a deficiency in Vitamin D. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in the regulation of calcium and phosphorus levels in the body, two essential minerals that are vital for the development of strong bones. In poultry, inadequate Vitamin D leads to improper mineralization of bones, resulting in the softening and deformation characteristic of rickets. Furthermore, Vitamin D is essential for the absorption of calcium from the diet, and without sufficient amounts of this vitamin, chicks can experience impaired bone development. This condition often manifests in visibly weak or deformed bones and can significantly impact the overall health and development of the birds, particularly in growing chicks. Other vitamins listed are not directly linked to rickets. Vitamin C is important for general health and immune function but does not impact bone mineralization. Vitamin A is crucial for vision and immune function, while Vitamin K is involved in blood clotting and bone metabolism but not specifically in preventing rickets. Thus, the role of Vitamin D in bone health makes it the correct answer regarding the deficiency that leads to rickets in poultry.